Data Governance is an essential part of modern data management. We work in an age where data is abundant, everyone depends on data, and most people are both creators and consumers of data. Like people, capital, and raw materials, data is a core resource for production. Data is a valuable business asset, but unfortunately, data is messy. Data without policies, standards, and guidelines is sure to have high risk and limited value. Data governance manages the policies, standards, and processes necessary to bring order to otherwise chaotic data management. In many ways, data governance is more a human endeavor than a technical pursuit. We don’t really govern data. We govern how we manage and work with data.

In this age of data-driven business, every organization needs data governance. It is at the heart of managing value, risk, quality, compliance, and data culture. Many organizations are in the process of implementing a data governance program, but most are struggling or only partially successful. Understanding the many dimensions of data governance, focusing on your organization’s specific needs and priorities, and tailoring governance to your organization's culture, information maturity, priorities, and sponsorship are important factors to minimize struggles and operate a successful data governance program. This course examines the dimensions, challenges, and success factors of data governance, providing fundamental knowledge for every data governance participant and stakeholder.